For decades the world only ever saw Russia and the USSR through the eyes of Bond, James Bond and everything was secretive, under the table and monitored by KGB spies only to be blown up and destroyed at the end. Thankfully, Ian Fleming’s James Bond is pure fiction and the books and the movies are not at all like Russia today, in fact, Russia today, is perhaps one of the easiest places to do business, and when done right, can be extremely good business.

There is just a little etiquette to follow if you want to succeed in business in Russia and there are really only 5 things to remember to get things right. Each of these can be improved upon by having a grasp of the Russian Language that goes is beyond “Dasvidaniya”.​

Russians are proud of their country, and everyone you come across will ask you about Russian and there is only one right answer and that is that you Love Russia. Being able to say why you love Russia and expand upon “Ya loolyou Rossiyu”, will serve you in good stead. Not only do the Russians love their country, but they are also proud of their language, both spoken and written. It is a simple and common courtesy to have any documentation you might have, produced in English (or your native language) and in Russian. Again, having a grasp of Russian could even give you the ability to discuss the documents and be the difference between sealing a deal, or not.​

It is rather unique to Russian society that men are addressed by their name, and the name of their father. There is a certain pride in this, and this minor heads up is what could win you any deal, first meetings are always utilising the fairly formal name, and father’s name, until things get a little relaxed. Again, being able to speak Russian will help you considerably here, with pronunciation, and of course making conversation, even asking about the man’s father.

In Russia, being just on time as James Bond always is, sometimes is not enough. On time is late by Russian standards and being early is considered being on time. As a foreigner, when your Russian client arrives late, you must not get frustrated. It is a strange way of working, but somewhere in the psyche there is some sense. Arrive early, it will leave you more relaxed, and of course, if you speak even some small talk in Russian, may even open the chance of increased opportunity.

​It is also good to look like a million dollars. Since the fall of communism, status is a big part of Russian society, it is not necessarily about a persons' ego but more just looking the part. Sloppy dressing is considered close to an insult, but a smart suit, with a crisp short and stylish tie that reflect in well-polished shoes, will give you the edge and show you mean business. And then, when least expected, you open your mouth and speak Russian, you really cannot lose!​Doing business in Russia is not difficult and it is made easier when you speak the language! ​